IVY [Meeting in progress]

Ivy is a perfect example of why some cats simply need a little time before you see who they really are. When she first arrived, it was obvious she wanted affection and companionship, but she wasn't quite brave enough to embrace them. Once she found the confidence to venture into the main café, everything changed and out came a girl who loves playtime, fuss, and a welcoming lap.

These days, Ivy will happily settle onto the laps of people she trusts and purr away contentedly. She's become increasingly confident with people of different ages and genders, although she still prefers to initiate interactions herself. Approach her too directly and she can be unsure; let Ivy make the first move, and you'll see a completely different cat.

Playtime is one of the easiest ways to get her attention, particularly if you happen to be holding a worm toy. Ivy is an active girl who loves to play and would need plenty of enrichment if living entirely indoors. She could also enjoy safe outdoor access after an appropriate settling-in period in a suitable location.

Ivy generally lives very happily alongside other cats and has enjoyed rolling around and playing with some of her feline friends. She can, however, be particular about sharing valuable things - especially food and laps. She doesn't like competition and needs her own bowl and feeding space. She has also had occasional friction with more territorial female cats, so we'd avoid pairing her with another particularly sassy girl.

What Ivy needs most is someone who understands that being slightly reserved at first doesn't mean she doesn't want a relationship. Her progress in the café has shown just how affectionate she can become when she feels secure. Her carers have seen improvements across the board, and the once-hesitant girl is now happily sampling different laps and becoming more confident all the time.

For a patient adopter, Ivy offers something special. Give her the freedom to choose when she approaches, respect her need not to compete for resources, and keep a worm toy handy, and you'll be rewarded with a playful, purring companion whose confidence has already come such a long way.